Buying second-hand furniture: size, condition and handover checklist

Measure more than the spot where it will stand

Record the item's length, width and height, and measure the doorway, corridor, corners and lift. For large furniture, ask whether it can be taken apart, who dismantles and assembles it, and whether the necessary parts are there. Find out beforehand about the building's moving hours or booking requirements too.

How do you check the item's condition?

Ask for recent photos and close-ups of worn areas, and ask about its age, accessories and whether it has been repaired. Cabinet doors, drawers and folding mechanisms can be tried on site; for appliances, confirm whether they can be tested and which accessories are included. A brand name does not mean the warranty is still valid.

• Confirm that what you receive is the same item as in the photos.
• Record scratches, stains, missing parts and the condition you are willing to accept.
• If there is a purchase receipt or warranty information, check whether it applies and can be transferred.

Which details should you settle before handover?

Agree the handover date, place, responsibility for moving and the cost, and state how on-site inspection and payment will work. For self-collection, confirm that someone will help and that the item is ready; for delivery, find out about the floor, the lift and extra carrying charges. For an item you have not seen or whose details are unclear, check first before arranging payment.

Common questions